Melbourne is Victoria’s bustling capital and Australia’s second-largest city. Renowned for its culture, coffee, creativity, and healthcare excellence, it’s also one of the country’s most sought-after locations for doctors seeking diverse career pathways and lifestyle options.
For vocationally registered GPs, International Medical Graduates (IMGs), and doctors within their moratorium, Melbourne and its surrounding regions offer a wealth of professional opportunities, from inner-city clinics to outer suburban and regional communities in need of dedicated practitioners.
Melbourne snapshot
With a population exceeding 5 million, Melbourne is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city that consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable. Its well-planned layout, excellent public transport, and commitment to green spaces make it both vibrant and accessible.
Healthcare is one of Victoria’s largest and fastest-growing industries, employing more than 15% of the state’s workforce. General practice demand remains strong across the metropolitan area and especially in growth corridors to the north, west, and southeast.
Surrounding Melbourne are some of Victoria’s most scenic regions, from the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula to Geelong and the Macedon Ranges, all within easy reach and offering unique GP opportunities with lifestyle appeal.
Health system and education
Melbourne is home to some of Australia’s most advanced healthcare and research facilities, including The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Alfred Health, and Austin Health. The city’s extensive primary care network spans independent family practices, corporate clinics, and multidisciplinary health hubs.
Victoria also boasts leading medical education institutions such as The University of Melbourne and Monash University, both globally recognised for their medical, nursing, and allied health programs. The city’s school system is equally strong, offering an excellent choice of public, private, and international schools, making it an ideal base for families.
Living in Melbourne
Melbourne’s lifestyle is one of its biggest drawcards. Known for its coffee culture, arts scene, and sporting calendar, the city offers something for everyone.
While housing prices vary across suburbs, Melbourne remains more affordable than Sydney, particularly in its outer metro and regional growth areas. Many doctors choose to live just outside the city, enjoying larger homes and relaxed suburban living while remaining within an easy commute of major hospitals and clinics.
Lifestyle highlights include:
- World-class dining, arts, and entertainment scenes.
- Easy access to beaches, mountains, and wineries.
- Four distinct seasons, from sunny summers to crisp winter mornings.
- Excellent cycling, walking, and public transport networks.
- Strong sense of community and diversity, Melbourne is home to people from over 180 nationalities.
Suburb snapshot
Werribee (South-West Melbourne)
• Fast-growing suburb with a mix of established and new housing estates
• Close to major hospitals and health hubs, with high GP demand
• Easy access to the CBD and Surf Coast
Craigieburn (North Melbourne)
• Rapidly expanding community with a young demographic
• Large number of medical centres and new developments
• High patient volume and strong demand for GPs
Mornington (Mornington Peninsula)
• Coastal lifestyle with relaxed living and strong community ties
• Popular with retirees and families alike
• Offers a mix of private and mixed billing practices
Box Hill (Eastern Suburbs)
• Established, culturally diverse suburb with excellent schools
• Close to Box Hill Hospital and transport connections
• Ideal for VR GPs seeking a busy metropolitan location
Pakenham (South-East Melbourne)
• Major growth corridor with new residential estates
• Strong need for GPs due to population growth
• Access to regional incentives in nearby towns
Geelong (Greater Geelong Region)
• Victoria’s second-largest city, just over an hour from Melbourne
• Blend of coastal, suburban, and semi-rural living
• DPA options available in surrounding areas
Surrounding areas worth considering
Beyond metropolitan Melbourne, regional centres such as Ballarat, Bendigo, and Shepparton offer rewarding GP roles with excellent support networks and rural incentives. These areas provide an ideal balance between professional opportunity and relaxed country living, often qualifying for 19AB exemptions, DPA status, and relocation incentives.
Eligibility for GPs
Melbourne offers opportunities for both VR GPs and doctors on the PEP Specialist or Expedited Specialist Pathways. While most inner metropolitan clinics are non-DPA, many outer metro and regional suburbs qualify for DPA status, providing more flexible options for IMGs and doctors under moratorium.
With strong patient demand, modern facilities, and excellent professional development options, Melbourne remains a top destination for GPs at all career stages.
GP opportunities in Melbourne
DXC Medical has supported numerous GPs relocating to Melbourne and surrounding regions, including:
- VR GPs seeking established practices in metro or suburban areas
- PEP Specialist Pathway doctors looking for DPA-eligible clinics in growth corridors
- Doctors interested in teaching, mentoring, or procedural work
Ready to explore your Melbourne options?
Browse our current GP job vacancies in Melbourne and regional Victoria via our interactive job map.
Connect with our VIC team today for personalised guidance, support, and local insights to help you take the next step in your GP career.
